Selecting the right paint sheen is key to achieving the right finish and functionality for your painting project. Haymes Paint, a family-run owned business since 1935, is dedicated to providing high-quality, innovative paint products. We proudly support local jobs and ensure the highest quality with our Australian-made and owned paints. Below is a comprehensive guide to understanding paint sheen levels and choosing the best option for your next project.

Understanding Paint Sheen

Sheen in paint refers to the gloss or shine level of a paint finish. It affects both appearance and durability, as well as factors like how easy the paint is to maintain and how much it shows blemishes. Higher sheen levels reflect more light, making surfaces shiny. In contrast, lower sheen levels create a matt look.

1. Matt/Flat

• Characteristics: Non-reflective, excellent at hiding imperfections.
• Best Uses: Ceilings, low-traffic areas
• Recommended Product: Haymes Paint Expressions® Interior Matt.

2. Eggshell

• Characteristics: Slight lustre, softens glancing light, washable, durable.
• Best Uses: Living rooms, dining rooms, high-traffic areas.
• Recommended Product: Haymes Paint Ultra Premium Eggshell.

3. Low Sheen

• Characteristics: Velvety finish, easy to clean.
• Best Uses: Most interior walls, family rooms, kitchens.
• Recommended Product: Haymes Paint Ultra Premium Kitchen & Bathroom.

4. Satin

• Characteristics: Soft glow, more reflective than low sheen.
• Best Uses:. Doors, trim, high-traffic areas.
• Recommended Product: Haymes Paint Solashield Exterior Satin.

5. Semi-Gloss

• Characteristics: Noticeable shine, durable.
• Best Uses: Doors, trim, high-traffic areas.
• Recommended Product: Haymes Paint Ultratrim.

6. Gloss/High Gloss

• Characteristics: Highly reflective, very durable.
• Best Uses: Doors, cabinets, trim.
• Recommended Product: Haymes Paint Ultra Premium Trimplus.

Comparisons and Practical Applications

Matt vs. Low Sheen

Matt:

• Pros: Excellent at hiding imperfections, non-reflective.
• Cons: Less washable, not ideal for high-traffic areas.

Low Sheen:

• Pros: Easy to clean, velvety finish.
• Cons: Slightly reflective, may show minor imperfections.

Eggshell vs. Low Sheen

Eggshell:

• Pros: Slight lustre, durable, good cleanability.
• Cons: Less reflective than low sheen, softens glancing, light 

Low Sheen:

• Pros: Velvety finish, excellent cleanability
• Cons: More lustrous than eggshell.

Eggshell vs. Matt

Eggshell:

• Pros: Slight lustre provides a more refined finish, durable and washable, good for high-traffic areas.
• Cons: Slightly more reflective than flat matt
• Best Uses: Living rooms, dining rooms, hallways.

Matt:

• Pros: Completely non-reflective, excellent at hiding surface imperfections.
• Cons: Less durable and washable than eggshell, not ideal  for high-traffic areas.
• Best Uses: Ceilings, bedrooms, low-traffic areas.

Factors Influencing Sheen Choice

1. Room Size and Lighting:

• High sheen levels (Semi-Gloss, Gloss) make small, dark rooms appear larger by reflecting more light.
• Lower sheen levels (Matt, Eggshell) soften the light and reduce glare, perfect for large, bright rooms.

1. Durability and Cleanability:

• High-traffic areas like hallways and living / dining benefit from durable, washable sheen levels (Eggshell, Low Sheen).
• Specialist products for areas like kitchens and bathrooms benefit from anti-bacterial properties (Low Sheen)
• Low-traffic areas can use Matt or Flat finishes for a subtler look.

1. Aesthetic Preferences:

• High sheen levels provide a modern, sleek look.
• Lower sheen levels offer a traditional, understated finish.

Where Is Low Sheen Paint Used?

Interior Walls: Ideal for living rooms, bedrooms, and hallways, low sheen helps to mask wall blemishes while providing a durable surface that stands up to daily challenges.

Exterior Surfaces: Whether it's weatherboard, timber cladding, or rendered walls, low-sheen paint withstands the elements and makes cleaning a breeze.

Benefits of Low Sheen Paint Include:

• Durability: Resists wear and tear, making it ideal for high-traffic areas.
• Ease of Cleaning: Simple to wash and maintain.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Offers a beautiful finish that complements various decor styles.

Haymes Paint Low Sheen Options

Expressions Interior by Haymes Paint is available in matt, Low Sheen, and Semi-Gloss, making it a versatile choice for any room. 

For exterior projects, Solashield offers exceptional protection and is available in finishes that include Low Sheen, enhancing the exterior aesthetics while providing long-lasting durability.

Application Tips for Matt Paint

Applying matt paint requires precision to achieve the best results. Here are some simple steps to ensure a flawless finish:

1. Preparation: Start by ensuring your walls are clean, dry, and smooth. Fill any holes or cracks to create a uniform surface.
2. Priming: Use a high-quality primer to enhance the durability and appearance of the matt finish.
3. Painting: Apply the matt paint using a high-quality brush or roller. Begin at the corners and edges, then fill in the centre areas, maintaining a wet edge to avoid overlap marks.
4. Second Coat: Depending on the colour and type of paint, a second coat may be necessary to achieve an even, comprehensive coverage.

While matt paint offers numerous aesthetic benefits, it can be more challenging to maintain than glossier finishes. Here are tips for keeping your matt-painted walls looking pristine:

• Regular Dusting: Use a soft, dry cloth to gently dust the walls.
• Spot Cleaning: For stains, lightly dab with a damp sponge and mild soap. Avoid vigorous scrubbing which can shine on the surface.

Practical Tips for Applying Semi-Gloss Paint

To achieve the best results with semi-gloss paint:

• Surface Preparation: Ensure walls are smooth and clean. Remember that imperfections are more noticeable with shinier finishes.
• Using the Right Tools: Use high-quality brushes and rollers to avoid streaks and ensure a uniform coat.
• Testing First: Always test paint colours in different lighting conditions to see how the finish looks throughout the day.

Get the Perfect Paint Sheen for Your Project 

For expert advice on choosing the right paint sheen, visit your local Haymes Paint shop and talk to our knowledgeable staff. Arrange a Colour Consultation with our fully qualified Haymes Paint Colour Consultants, or explore our full product range online and order samples to find the perfect sheen for your project. 

FAQs About Paint Sheen

What is low-sheen paint used for?

It’s ideal for most interior walls, balancing durability and aesthetics.

What is eggshell paint?

Eggshell paint has a slight lustre, offering good durability and cleanability without being too shiny.

How to choose the right sheen for your project?

Consider the room type, traffic levels, and desired look. High-traffic areas benefit from washable sheen, while low-traffic areas can use matt finishes.